Sunday Column (471)

One week into the New Year. So what are your New Year resolutions? Oh, and before I forget, Happy New Year to all my readers. It was nice to hear some positive feedback from a ‘Northern’ reader this week (shout out to you mate) which I much appreciate. I really enjoy getting feedback, so please reach out and let me know what you think. Thanks!

Socialmedia allows us to reach out to a mass of contacts easily on New Years’s Eve to wish people a Happy New Year. Less of a personal touch and a lot easier than trying to phone people when lines are busy. You remember that, trying to send a text message on NYE a few years back. And the network was down or you didn’t have reception? How times have changed, and technology too. However, it is nice to see what everyone is up to and reflects upon and of course, is looking forward to this year. More about networking below.

Next is my podcast, like an audio blog really. The website went live this week: Stories Of Success. I hope to have the first couple of recordings by this time next week and push out a first episode the week after. I am excited and scared at the same time. You will hear it in the first few episodes I am sure, but it is so much fun creating something, that in my mind, will add value to the listeners. Here is to 2018, to new opportunities and new ideas.

Btw, if you think you are successful or if you know of someone who is, and you think that person should be on my podcast, please come forward and let me know. Any help or referral is appreciated and paid for by beers….see more about that later. Another cry for feedback today, so yes, I’d love to hear from you.

I have been thinking hard to define my top three goals for the year. Actually, they are quite simple for 2018.

Firstly, I would like a new job. This could be on a contract basis, however my main focus is to settle in a more secure job for the next 3-5 years, a job I like and a job that takes my career forward. I started to speak to a couple companies within and outside my current industry and hope that soon I’ll find my new challenge for 2018 and beyond. After all, my main responsibility at the moment is my family, bills to pay, mortgage to pay and to provide security.
My ask to you: if you know of anyone looking for an experienced commercial person, please get in touch.

On that note, I reached out to recruiters and my network this week, and I appreciate that a lot of people aren’t really back at work until next week. However, the response I got so far was overwhelming. Not only did I get a lot of positive replies but people also offered their help. It is so nice to see that people care. And, if you are in a similar position and need help, you know that you can always reach out to me and ask me for advice, introductions etc. I love helping, and I appreciate help. Thank you all for your kindness.

Secondly, and aligning with the first goal, is focus. If I didn’t learn anything else from 2017 from my manager or from my 6 weeks brainstorming and reflection at the end of last year, but to have focus. My focus is clearer than ever, focusing on values around family, stability, security and a happy, healthy life. On the back of that, there are values like career advancement, progression and success. Those values will gain more focus in 2018 as I make them more of a priority than I have done in 2017. But matching my life style and career to the values is key.

Thirdly, my passion for personal development needs to have a clearer form and shape. What I mean by that is that launching my podcast is the beginning of a new journey. Once the first episode is uploaded, I will make sure to let you know. I am excited to interview people who have been successful and uncover their secrets for you to apply their ‘secret sauce’ to your life.

As every year, we were looking to have a dry January. And, similar to most years, I probably stopped it by the time you are reading this. Yes, I was planning 2 weeks really, but as the days are so dark and cold, and the fire is on… so don’t worry, I will be up for pints if you are 🙂

A week off the booze is enough to detox. The idea is more about having less booze overall. Having had plenty of conversations with people over the past few weeks, I don’t drink more than average (defined by my benchmark of course) and well within the norm. Moderation, as always, is key. This of course goes in line with a new exercise routine (less is more = moderation) and focus around a healthier life style. The amount of crisps and junk food I ate over the past six weeks has been fun but awful at the same time. Oh and don’t forget all that cheese 😉